In 2023, we said goodbye to some of our favourite Canadian stars. From actors and musicians to sportsmen, all these celebrities have left a lasting mark on our hearts. Their legacies extend far beyond the screen or the stage.
Their talent and dedication to their work continue to inspire us. They taught us to laugh in adversity and fight for what we believe in.
Though their physical presence is no longer with us, their work will continue to remind us of them. Let’s take a moment to remember the impact of these legends in the entertainment and sports industry.
Here are some popular names who are no longer with us.
1. Matthew Perry – Died at Age 54
Matthew Perry was a Canadian-American actor known for his memorable role as Chandler Bing in the iconic sitcom Friends. His career spanned television, films, and theatre.
He tragically passed away on October 28, 2023, at 54 years old, in an incident at his Los Angeles home.
Perry’s performances in “Friends,” “The West Wing,” and “The Ron Clark Story” earned him nominations for prestigious awards, including Emmys and Golden Globes.
2. Charles Officer – Died at Age 49
Charles Officer was a famous Canadian director, writer, and actor. He died on December 1, 2023, at the age of 49. The cause of his death was a heart attack.
Officer was a nominee and winner of multiple Canadian Screen Awards for Best Direction in a Drama Series for “The Porter” and in a Web Series for “21 Black Futures.”
He has won the Audience Award for Best Dramatic Feature at the BlackStar Film Festival and was nominated for the International Documentary Association and the Peabody Awards.
3. Gordon Pinsent – Died at Age 92
Gordon Pinsent was a famous actor, writer, and director. He died at age 92 on February 25, 2023, due to a cerebral hemorrhage.
A Companion of the Order of Canada, Gordon Pinsent has won five Gemini Awards and three Genie Awards for his acting and writing.
4. Gordon Lightfoot – Died at Age 84
The iconic Canadian singer-songwriter Gordon Lightfoot has left an indelible mark on folk and folk-rock music. He died on May 1, 2023, at the age of 84.
With 16 Juno Awards, 4 Grammy nominations, and a Companion of the Order of Canada, Lightfoot is a Canadian music legend.
From timeless classics like “Sundown” and “The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald” to the charm of “If You Could Read My Mind” and “Canadian Railroad Trilogy, he was the voice of Canada.
5. Myles Goodwyn – Died at Age 75
Myles Goodwyn was a Canadian singer, songwriter, and guitarist. He was the frontman of the legendary Canadian rock band April Wine.
From “I Like to Rock” to “You Won’t See Me Cry,” his songs have captured the spirit of youth and love. He died on December 3, 2023, at the age of 75.
He received the National Achievement and ECMA Lifetime Achievement Awards and was inducted into the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame and Canada’s Walk of Fame.
6. David Gell – Died at Age 94
David Gell, who began his career as a Canadian radio DJ and television presenter, gained fame in Britain on Radio Luxembourg and the BBC.
He passed away on December 8, 2023, in Calgary, Alberta, at the age of 94. Renowned for hit shows such as “The Wife Swappers” and “London in the Raw,” Gell made a significant impact both on camera and in the theatre.
7. Samantha Gail Weinstein – Died at Age 28
Samantha Gail Weinstein was a Canadian actress known for her work in film, television, and theatre, passed away on May 14, 2023, at 28 after a battle with ovarian cancer.
Beginning her acting career at a young age, Weinstein quickly won over audiences with her remarkable talent and charisma. She was known for her roles in films such as “Carrie,” “Jesus Henry Christ,” and “The Stone Angel.”
Her performance in “Big Girl” earned her the ACTRA Award and recognition at the Cyprus International Film Festival. Additionally, her work in “Ninth Street Chronicles” garnered a Special Jury Mention at the Austin Film Festival.
8. Robbie Robertson – Died at Age 80
Robbie Robertson was a Canadian singer-songwriter and guitarist. He died on August 9, 2023, at the age of 80.
While working for music bands “Music from Big Pink” and “The Band,” he has won several Juno awards and was nominated for 13 Grammy awards.
His famous songs include “The Weight,” “Up on Cripple Creek,” and “The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down.”
9. Sharon Acker – Died at Age 87
Sharon Acker was a Canadian actress who showcased her versatility across television, film, and theatre for over three decades, captivating audiences with her performances.
She passed away on March 16, 2023, at the age of 87. Acker’s exceptional talent in “Hec Ramsey” earned her the Western Heritage Award.
She is best remembered for her roles in TV series such as “Perry Mason” and “The New Perry Mason,” and in films like “Lucky Jim” and “Don’t Let the Angels Fall.”
10. Marty Krofft – Died at Age 86
Marty Krofft and his brother Sid were visionary puppeteers and producers known for creating vibrant, fantastical worlds that defined many childhoods.
He passed away on November 25, 2023, at 86 years old, leaving behind a legacy of six awards and three nominations.
The Krofft brothers’ Saturday morning shows, such as “H.R. Pufnstuf” and “Land of the Lost,” became iconic in pop culture, enchanting generations with their whimsical creations.
11. Patricia Hamilton – Died at Age 86
Patricia Hamilton was a celebrated Canadian actress, she had a prolific career spanning over six decades in theatre, film, and television, leaving a lasting impact on the arts.
She passed away on April 30, 2023, at the age of 86. Hamilton’s notable work included performances in theatre, movies, and award-winning TV shows like “Avonlea” and “My Bloody Valentine.”
12. George Ross Robertson – Died at Age 89
George Ross Robertson was a Canadian actor who graced screens for over six decades in theatre, films, and television. He died on January 29, 2023, at the age of 89.
He received the Margaret Collier and Gemini awards, and earned three nominations for his work in shows like “Police Academy,” “Hiroshima,” and films including “JFK” and “Norma Rae.”
13. Alain Chartrand – Died at Age 77
Alain Chartrand was a talented Canadian filmmaker who wore many hats throughout his career. He was a director, screenwriter, producer, and editor.
He died on December 11, 2023. Alain has won the Clermont-Ferrand International Short Film Festival and the Gémeaux Awards and was nominated for five other awards.
He directed various genres, from documentaries and historical dramas like “L’étau-bus” to comedic movies like “Ding et Dong, le film.”
14. Suzanne Coy – Died at Age 61
Suzanne Coy was a vibrant Canadian actress. More than just a performer, she was a passionate advocate for community engagement.
Born in Jamaica and raised in Canada, Coy had a talent for carrying diverse characters. She passed away on August 11, 2023, at 61.
For her roles in “Suzanne Coy,” “Heartland,” and “Da Kink in My Hair,” she was nominated for Canadian Comedy and Best Performance by Ensemble awards.
15. Len Birman – Died at Age 90
Len Birman was a Canadian actor who died in February 2023 at 90. He was a versatile actor who excelled in multiple roles, from classical theatre to television and films.
He appeared in famous movies like “Silver Streak,” “The Muppet Movie,” and “The Changeling,” and played a role in the television series “The Equalizer.”
16. Alexandra Paul – Died at Age 31
Alexandra Paul was a Canadian ice dancer who mesmerized audiences on the Olympic stage with her artistry in figure skating.
Tragically, she passed away in a car accident on August 22, 2023, at the young age of 31. Together with her partner Mitch Islam, Paul achieved three Canadian national bronze medals.
Her skillful performances also led to podium finishes at prestigious competitions like the Nebelhorn Trophy and Skate Canada International.
17. Raymond Sawada – Died at Age 38
Raymond Sawada was a Canadian professional Ice Hockey winger. He not only made his mark on the ice but also contributed to his community as a firefighter.
On April 10, 2023, he passed away suddenly at the age of 38. He had a heart attack while playing a recreational hockey game.
18. Bobby Hull
Bobby Hull is known as the “Golden Jet” in Canadian hockey. He was a legendary player renowned for his incredible speed and formidable shots.
He passed away on January 30, 2023, at the age of 84. Hull is celebrated as one of the NHL’s top scorers, earning the Art Ross Trophy as the leading scorer.
A 12-time All-Star and two-time Hart Trophy recipient, Hull also won the “Rocket” Richard Trophy for the most goals. His remarkable achievement of 54 goals in the 1965-66 season stood as an NHL record for 25 years.
19. Emile Duprée – Died at Age 86
Emile Duprée was a Canadian professional wrestler and promoter. He rose to fame in wrestling with his dynamic presence and athleticism, quickly making a mark in independent circuits.
Dupree died on September 17, 2023. His influence extends beyond the ring as he mentored young wrestlers, shaping the future of the sport. His dedication cemented his status as a respected figure in professional wrestling.
The pro wrestler was inducted into the Canadian Pro-Wrestling Hall of Fame in 2023, recognizing his significant contributions to the sport.
